How to examine yourself for testicular cancer

1 It's best to check yourself after a long hot shower when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed and soft, which makes it easier to feel lumps in the testicles.



2 Examine the scrotum, looking for any lumps on the skin or swellings inside.

3 Cradle the whole scrotum and testicles in the palm of your hand and feel the difference between the testicles. It is normal for one to be larger and lying lower.

4 Examine each testicle in turn, and then compare them with each other. Use both hands and gently roll each testicle between thumb and forefinger.

5 Check for lumps or swellings; both testicles should be smooth except where the duct that carries sperm to the penis, the epididymis, runs. The epididymis lies along the top and back of the testicle and normally feels bumpy.